C&O Canal Project
SLES is named for the nearby “seven locks” segment (locks 8 through 14) of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal. The SLESEF launched the Canal Project to help reflect this unique local heritage in the new SLES building that opened in 2012.
- The SLESEF encouraged incorporation of canal themes to the exterior and interior design of the new building. The SLES building has “locks” at the entry, a water motif in the entry hall flooring, and “gates” at the end of the entry hall.
- The SLESEF and the SLES PTA selected the large C&O Canal mural at the end of the entry hall, as well as a colorful National Park Service Canal map and accompanying posters that tell the story of the C&O Canal and its role in American history.
- The SLESEF collaborated with the Class of 2012 to select two large historic photos of the C&O Canal to complement the mural at the end of the hallway.
- The SLESEF compiled a collection of historic materials and books related to the C&O Canal, with the generous support of the Friends of the Historic Great Falls Tavern.
In recognition of SLES’s efforts to recognize the history of the C&O Canal, SLES was selected by the National Park Service to participate in an “Adopt-a-Class” initiative to commemorate its 100th Anniversary. SLES was the only elementary school in Montgomery County selected to have this opportunity to work closely with C&O Canal park rangers to plan in-school enrichment activities and field trip opportunities.